by Isabelle Sorrells
Adapted from the poem “Lochinvar” by Sir Walter Scott
Long ago a Scottish knight journeyed far and alone in search for his love. Spurred on by the passion of youth and the courage of the faithful, the knight Lord Lochinvar traversed raging rivers and rode unceasingly beneath the light of the moon and sun. His route finally came to an end at the looming castle of Netherby gate. Here he found the beauteous Ellen, who is oh, so fair, standing before a coward in matrimony.
“Do you come in peace? Or do you come in war?” Lord Netherby demanded, “Or, by chance, have you come to dance?”
“I charmed your daughter, but you denied me. I shall have a bit of wine, and perhaps dance a small step,” replied Lord Lochinvar with a friendly smile.
The fair Ellen presented him with a goblet holding a smuggled kiss upon the rim – averting from his eyes to blush and hide a tear in her own. With a lift of her chin Lord Lochinvar smoothly stole her away to the ball floor where all before them watched in awe because of their grace. How perfect he was, and he who was such a good match, such a shame that it was too late, the bridesmaids conversed with regret. Through it all her father’s anger burned, and her mother’s worries grew while her bridegroom stood with not a thing to do.
Lochinvar whisked her slowly across the room with an air of one who would dance their last, escalating into a fervent passion all because of a smile, the brush of a hand, and the silent whisper of a word. The couple spun and spun to the music, to the door, and beyond. Lochinvar tossed Ellen onto his awaiting steed, mounting behind her, and she galloped away with him, a far better match. The Netherbys and abandoned groom immediately prepared to follow. Although they gave chase, it was all to no avail, because Lochinvar was too far gone and good. Racing away with his stolen wife, the fair Ellen remained lost forever, who, a soul happy in a love so true, was never to be seen again.
This is a short piece I adapted from “Lochinvar” by Sir Walter Scott for a class assignment. The originial is a wonderful poem that is definitely worth a good read.
Words Worth While 